Mary Katherine Styba (Green)

In Loving Memory of Mary Katherine Styba (Green) 79, of Barrie, Ontario who passed away peacefully at home with family by her side.  Mary was born in Toronto, Ontario August 24, 1944, to Mary and Michael Green.  She was the 2^nd of their 4 children.

At 23 years of age, Mary embarked on a fulfilling career in Quality Assurance and Inspection at Stelco Steel.  A career that would last for over 31 years and where she met her soulmate Dave, and together they shared 42 beautiful years of marriage.  Through this union, they lovingly brought together a family of three daughters - Tracey, Angel, and Robin.  Mary was a loving and devoted grandmother to Sarina and Sean.  She cherished the births of her great-grandchildren Zoe and Hazel.  She was very close with her siblings and rarely a day went by where she was not on the phone chatting with her sister Rita and catching up on the rest of the family.  She was proud of everyone's accomplishments, celebrated their successes and was always there when needed.

Mary's infectious personality, quick readiness to laugh and smile, lit up every room she entered.  She was known for her generosity, kindness, and unconditional love but also for her curiosity which led her on a great many adventures much to the enjoyment of those with her, and where she made many lasting friendships.  Mary was a true free spirit.  Her easy-going personality, daring nature and sense of humor made her magnetic.  She was an amazing storyteller with the ability to bring stories to life in the mind of her listeners.  Children in the family cherish the memories of Betty Boop's adventures and have weaved their own adventures to pass down through the years.  She had a love for meeting new people and listening to their stories, making her easy to talk to and approachable.  Over the years she formed many close and long-lasting friendships with Farrah, Lise, Eleanor, Janet, Tina, Gloria, Jean C, Jean M, Susan M, along with many others she met over the years.

Mary had many interests of which several she shared with Dave.  They would spend endless hours going to auctions, garage sales and anywhere there was an opportunity to find the next great treasure.  They shared many good times at the trailer, going to dances, picnics and cards.  Mary had a real passion for knitting, especially socks.  She shared her creations with all of us and taught Dave and her granddaughter Sarina how to knit.  Her daughter never got the knack of knitting but has over 100 pairs of socks knitted with love.

Mary shared her love of dogs with Dave and over the years they rescued several dogs and gave them a loving family- Heidi, Buddy, Kikko, Merlin and are grandparents to Teddy.

As an exemplary mom, she instilled a passion for learning, curiosity and enjoying whatever you are doing in her loved ones, giving her all in everything she did.  She loved to spend time with her family and vacations, special events, holidays, barbecues, were some of her favourite times.  She loved cooking family favorites to uphold cherished traditions at gatherings.  Restaurants and buffets were another favourite where many a special occasion was celebrated.

Mary was always willing to lend a helping hand, even to strangers in need.  Many a times she would be in line at the checkout and purchase items for people in front of her, give money to those who did not have enough or were in a crisis.  She was always there to help and listen with those she did not know.  Her empathy and sensitivity were unique and she could never leave a person having a hard time.

Mary's strength of spirit, bravery, and the joy she brought to all who knew her will forever be cherished. Her departure has left a gaping hole and is felt by her entire family and friends.  She leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and unforgettable memories that will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to have known her.

Rest in peace, Mary.  You will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing you.

Mary was predeceased by her mother Mary Rita Green (Kearney), her father Michael Patrick Green and her brothers Joseph Green and Daniel Patrick Green.  Her cherished dogs Heidi, Buddy, Kikko and Merlin.  Her first husband Robert Winston Freeman.

Mary is survived by her husband David Styba, Daughters Tracey Freeman (Paul), Angel Styba (Frank), Robin Styba (Brian).  Grandchildren Sarina Wood (Scott), Sean Massa (Jess).  Great grandchildren Zoe Wood, Hazel Wood.  Sister and Brother-in-law Rita and Bob Hutsulak.  Niece Kelly Ault (Brad).  Nephew Steven Hutsulak (Amanda).  Great nieces and nephews, Teyah Ault, Brady Ault, Ava Hutsulak, Joey Hutsulak.  Sister-in-laws Olga Cybuchowski and Linda Collings (Neil).  Brother-in-laws Walter Styba (Vicki), Russell Styba, Al Styba and Frank Styba.

In memory of Mary's love of animals, donations if you wish, can be made to SPCA to help the many animals in need.   Make a gift in honour of someone special! - Ontario SPCA